Travelling is an exhilarating experience filled with excitement and thrill, but it can also come with unpleasant consequences—like the occasional illness. After exploring diverse cultures and cuisines, you may encounter a range of common health issues or post-travel blues. Studies show that almost 50% of travellers returning to Europe and North America from the tropics experience health problems related to their travel, and 8% consult doctors abroad or on return. Understanding these potential illnesses can help ensure your travel memories are pleasant, leaving behind headaches and stomach discomfort. Let’s uncover what to be mindful of after you return home.
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Reason for seeking medical care among Australian and multinational travellers
Numerous Australian and international travellers who come back with fevers seek medical attention for various illnesses acquired abroad. Fever-related illnesses are prevalent among those returning from tropical or subtropical areas, where diseases like malaria, dengue, typhoid fever, and other vector-borne infections (infections passed by blood-feeding insects such as mosquitoes or ticks) are widespread. Additionally, gastrointestinal disorders, respiratory infections, and skin issues are often reported.Also read: A GP recommends best health advice for travel
The absence of detailed data complicates the process of assessing the complete range of illnesses, but it is understood that up to 20% of returning travellers visit a general practitioner. Major reasons for these consultations include:Malaria:
A leading cause of fever in individuals returning from regions in Africa, Asia, and South America. Symptoms can arise weeks after return, and if untreated, malaria can be life-threatening.Dengue:
Dengue fever is frequently seen in travellers returning from tropical areas, particularly Southeast Asia and Latin America, and presents with high fever, joint pain, and rash.Typhoid fever:
This illness is contracted through contaminated food or water in developing nations and often causes prolonged fever alongside gastrointestinal symptoms.Gastrointestinal disorders:
Many travellers experience diarrhoea, typically linked to bacteria such as E. coli, Salmonella, or Shigella.Respiratory infections:
Travel-related illnesses affecting the respiratory system are common, especially in areas with significant pollution or close contact among people.Skin infections:
These infections may arise from insect bites, inadequate hygiene, or cuts that become infected, particularly in tropical regions. Consulting a general practitioner promptly can facilitate an accurate diagnosis and treatment.Common travel illnesses for Aussies
Here’s a summary of typical travel-related illnesses for Australians, including precautions, signs, management strategies, and when to seek medical advice:Traveller's diarrhoea:
Traveller's diarrhoea is a frequent issue that arises from eating or drinking contaminated food or water, especially in developing nations. To minimise the risk, travellers should choose bottled or purified water, steer clear of street food, and select well-cooked dishes. They should also brush their teeth and rinse their mouth with bottled water. Common symptoms include frequent loose stools, abdominal discomfort, nausea, and vomiting. Management primarily involves staying hydrated with oral rehydration solutions, while over-the-counter medications like loperamide can assist in managing symptoms. If diarrhoea lasts longer than 48 hours, or there is blood in the stools, a high fever, or signs of dehydration (like dark urine or dizziness), it’s essential to seek medical care.Malaria:
Malaria is a severe disease transmitted by mosquitoes, common in tropical and subtropical regions. To safeguard themselves, travellers should utilise insect repellent, sleep under mosquito nets, and take prescribed anti-malarial drugs. Symptoms of malaria often manifest as fever, chills, headache, sweats, fatigue, and nausea. If someone contracts malaria, treatment usually involves antimalarial medication with supportive care to alleviate symptoms. It’s vital to consult a doctor if a fever develops after visiting an area where malaria is prevalent.Dengue fever:
Dengue fever is a viral disease spread by mosquitoes and is frequently observed in tropical areas. To avoid dengue, travellers should protect themselves from mosquito bites by applying repellents, dressing in long sleeves, and steering clear of places with stagnant water. Typical symptoms include high fever, severe headaches, pain behind the eyes, joint and muscle discomfort, and sometimes, a rash. There isn’t a specific antiviral treatment for dengue; instead, management focuses on alleviating symptoms through hydration and pain relief (while avoiding anti-inflammatory medications).Also read: 9 Health tips when travelling with children (for parents)
Typhoid fever:
Typhoid fever is a bacterial infection that spreads through contaminated food and water, particularly in regions with inadequate sanitation. It is advisable to get vaccinated before travelling to high-risk areas. Travellers should refrain from consuming tap water and raw foods. Symptoms generally consist of prolonged fever, fatigue, abdominal pain, headaches, and loss of appetite. Treatment commonly involves antibiotics, while supportive care for hydration and nutrition remains crucial. If you experience symptoms following exposure to high-risk areas, seeking advice from a healthcare professional is crucial.Respiratory infections:
Respiratory infections can arise during travel, often due to viral or bacterial causes, particularly in crowded settings. To reduce the risk, travellers should maintain good hygiene, avoid close contact with those who are sick, and consider vaccinations, such as the flu vaccine. Symptoms may include cough, sore throat, runny or congested nose, fever, and fatigue. Management usually involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications for symptom relief. If symptoms become more severe or last longer than a week, or if you experience difficulty breathing, it's important to seek medical advice promptly.Hepatitis A:
Hepatitis A is a viral liver infection that spreads through contaminated food and water. Before visiting areas where hepatitis A is common, vaccination is advised. Travellers should ensure proper food hygiene and consume safe water. Symptoms might involve fatigue, nausea, stomach discomfort, loss of appetite, and jaundice. Most individuals recover completely without specific treatment, as management typically focuses on providing supportive care for symptoms. If symptoms occur after exposure or vaccination, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider.Zika virus:
The Zika virus is another illness spread by mosquitoes linked to travel in certain tropical areas. Travellers can lower their risk by using insect repellent, wearing protective garments, and avoiding high-risk locations, especially if pregnant. Symptoms are generally mild and may include fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis (red eyes). There’s no specific treatment for Zika, management revolves around relieving symptoms and maintaining hydration.How can telehealth help?
- 24/7 online consultation: Discuss your symptoms with a licensed doctor via telehealth, available round the clock.
- Medication Prescription: Receive necessary prescriptions, such as anti-sickness medications, or rehydration solutions, to help manage your condition.
- Specialist Referrals: If further investigation is needed, get referrals for specialists, blood tests, or additional care.
- Medical Certificates: Obtain a doctor's certificate for work, university, or other documentation needs.
- After-Hours Doctors: Access medical consultations after hours, including weekends and public holidays.
Reference
- National library of medicine - reference Link
- Infections in the returned traveller - reference link
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This content is created for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. For emergencies please immediately contact 000.
